What You Need to Know About Cameroon Residence Permit
Atomic Answer: What You Need To Know About Cameroon Residence Permit is a critical component of the Canadian immigration framework. As of 2026, applicants navigating this pathway must adhere to the latest IRCC guidelines, ensure all documentation is properly prepared, and meet the specific eligibility requirements. Processing times and exact costs will vary based on individual circumstances.
What You Need to Know About Cameroon Residence Permit
If you want to stay in Cameroon for more than 90 days and settle in the Republic of Cameroon, you must obtain a residence card after entering the country with a valid visa.
Since Cameroon residence permits are issued by the General Delegation of National Security of Cameroon, it is necessary to apply to this institution.
In Cameroon, the conditions under which and to whom residence permits will be issued are regulated by Decree No. 2007/255/PR dated 4 September 2007. According to Cameroonian laws, residence permits are divided into two types: temporary Cameroon residence permits and permanent Cameroon residence permits.
Cameroon Temporary Residence Permit (La Carte De Séjour)
The Cameroon temporary residence permit is an identity document issued to foreign nationals who are 18 years of age or older and are legally permitted to reside in Cameroon. It is valid for 2 years and is renewable.
Documents Required for Temporary Residence Permit Application
The following documents are required for the Cameroon temporary residence permit application.
- A photocopy of a valid passport with a long-term Cameroon visa (taken within the last 3 months)
- A residence document issued by the administrative authority or police department with regional jurisdiction, bearing the previous and mandatory visa of the district or village administrator
- Criminal record certificate
- A true photocopy of a tax certificate, exemption tax receipt or business license valid for the current fiscal year.
- Document showing that the stamp duty determined by the Finance Law has been paid.
- Accommodation document
Temporary Residence Permit Renewal Process
Renewal of the Cameroon temporary residence permit is carried out by submitting an application with a residence document at least 1 month before the expiration of the validity period of the previous residence permit.
Cameroon Permanent Residence Permit (La Carte De Résident)
The Cameroon permanent residence permit is an identity document issued to foreigners who are considered residents of Cameroon. The permanent residence permit is renewable and valid for a period of 10 years.
Documents Required for Permanent Residence Permit Application
The following documents are required for the Cameroon permanent residence permit application.
- Temporary Cameroon residence permit that has been renewed for the third time and has at least 1 month left to expire
- Residence document issued by the administrative authority or regionally competent police station
- Criminal record document
- A photocopy of the passport containing a valid and long-term visa, approved within the last 3 months.
- Receipt showing that stamp duty has been paid
- A certified photocopy of the tax certificate, exemption tax receipt or license title valid for the current fiscal year.
Cameroon Residence Permit Fees
The Cameroon residence permit fees valid for 2025 are given in the table below.
| Residence Permit Type | Fee |
| Temporary residence permit for students and minors | 30,000 CFA francs |
| Temporary residence permit for African adults | 120,000 CFA francs |
| Temporary residence permit for French citizens | 200,000 CFA francs |
| Temporary residence permit for citizens of other countries | 250,000 CFA francs |
| Temporary residence permit for diplomatic personnel | Free |
| Permanent residence permit for religious and legal spouses of Cameroonian citizens | 60,000 CFA francs |
| Permanent residency for Africans | 250,000 CFA francs |
| Permanent residence permit for French citizens | 500,000 CFA francs |
| Permanent residence permit for citizens of other countries | 700,000 CFA francs |
| Permanent residence permit for diplomatic personnel | Free |
Can I Get Citizenship With a Cameroon Residence Permit?
With a Cameroon residence permit, citizenship can be obtained after residing in the country for 5 years.
Persons who have resided legally in Cameroon for 5 years can apply for Cameroonian citizenship if they also meet the other mandatory conditions.